Resident Evil 4 was a groundbreaking game when it was first released in 2005. Its combination of survival horror and action gameplay set the standard for the genre, and its influence is still felt today. Now, 18 years later, Capcom has remade the game from the ground up, and the result is phenomenal.
The first thing that struck me about the Resident Evil 4 remake was how much better it looked. The stunning graphics, with highly detailed environments and character models, make the game feel like it was made for modern hardware. The lighting, in particular, is impressive, creating a sense of atmosphere and tension lacking in the original game.
But the improvements go far beyond just the visuals. The gameplay has been modernized to match contemporary standards, making the game more accessible and enjoyable for newcomers while retaining the core mechanics that made the original so beloved.
The remake features modernized controls as one of its most notable changes.
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The original game was infamous for its tank-like movement and awkward aiming mechanics. In the remake, the controls have been updated to allow for more fluid movement and twin-stick aiming. This makes the game feel much more responsive and enjoyable without sacrificing the challenge and tension that made the original memorable.
The combat in the Resident Evil 4 remake is just as intense and satisfying as in the original. The enemies are still challenging and varied, and the game’s signature dynamic shooting mechanics make every encounter feel like a high-stakes battle. The area-specific damage effects are awe-inspiring, allowing players to disable enemies strategically by shooting out their knees or arms or even blasting weapons out of their hands.
The Resident Evil 4 remake effectively blends modern and traditional elements.
The game includes many exact locations and enemies, as in the original, but with subtle changes that keep things fresh and exciting. For example, some areas have been expanded or redesigned, while others have been completely overhauled. This keeps players on their toes, even if they’re familiar with the original game.
But the remake also introduces new content that adds to the overall experience. One of the most significant additions is the inclusion of cut content from the original game, such as the Plaga Removal laser sequence. This adds to the game’s story and lore and gives players something new to look forward to.
Of course, the remake is not without its flaws. The biggest issue is the need for bonus content. The original game included several bonus modes, such as Separate Ways and The Mercenaries, that added significant replay value. Unfortunately, none of these modes are included in the remake at launch, although Capcom has promised to add The Mercenaries as free post-launch content. It must be clarified whether other methods, such as Separate Ways or Assignment Ada, will also be counted.
Despite this, the Resident Evil 4 remake is still a must-play game for anyone who enjoyed the original. The improvements to the graphics and controls make it feel like a brand-new experience, while the core gameplay remains as satisfying and challenging as ever. It’s clear that Capcom put a lot of care and effort into remaking this classic game, and the result is a game that is both faithful to the original and exciting in its own right.
